The Big Island of Hawai’i is larger than the other islands in the chain (about 4,000 square miles) with a resident population of only just over 200,000. There are vast open spaces that go on for mile after mile of magnificent landscape. From lush rainforest to desolate lava fields – from the cool mountain air of Waimea to the humid heat of the eastern “rainy side” of the island – there is always something new to discover!

If you are up to it, you can even hike to the top of Mauna Kea (dormant) volcano and join the astronomers at Keck Observatory watching the stars from an altitude of almost 14,000 ft. But be prepared for very cold temperatures and even snow at certain times of the year!

Or you can visit the Volcanoes National Park and watch the lava flow into the sea.

To me this island is not only a photographer’s dream, but it is also a place where I can listen to the sounds of the earth, watch the stars, and learn about the deeply spiritual nature of it’s people.

Taking a tour with a local guide through areas not open to the general public, I was humbled to listen to the depth of his knowledge of the island’s native plants and animals. We could all learn so much about respect for the natural resources of our planet from the Hawai’ians.
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